Setting prescribed fires in controlled settings can reduce the risk of wildfires burning out of control, as many Floridians witnessed during the state's recent drought. That's why the Land Management Section of the Southwest Florida Water Management
District (District) will be conducting prescribed burns during the months of July, August, and September on the Upper Hillsborough property in Polk County.
The Upper Hillsborough property is in the area of Chancy Rd. and S.R. 54 near Zephyrhills. Approximately 950 acres will be burned in small, manageable units.
Some major benefits of prescribed fire include:
- Reducing overgrown plants which decreases the risk of catastrophic wildfires
- Promoting the growth of new, diverse plants
- Maintaining the character and condition of wildlife habitat
- Maintaining access for public recreation
The District's land management section conducts prescribed fires on approximately 30,000 acres each year. Click here for a quick look at what it's like along the fire line.